If Karnataka have to restrict Maharashtra, they have to snare quick wickets in the morning.

Sreenath Aravind, the Karnataka bowler has said that his side is looking to restrict Maharashtra around 320 to 350 in the first innings of the Ranji Trophy 2013-14 final at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad.

Maharashtra had won the toss and elected to bat, finishing the day on 272 for five with Ankit Bawne unbeaten on 89.

Aravind felt it was a good day for his side. He told the media, “The day was pretty good for the team. It is going on well till now and expecting better tomorrow. (sic)”

One could see that the wicket did not have much for the fast bowlers, apart from the early help in the morning. “Pitch is on the slower side. The bowlers have bowled well and we could have expected another two wickets, but unfortunately, we couldn’t get them,” Aravind said.

Interestingly, Aravind bowled his usual pace and also dabbled with some left-arm orthodox. When asked about it, he said, “It is a team decision and I have to go through it as a fast-bowler and spinner. Both combinations work well.”

Ultimately, Aravind believes Karnataka should restrict Maharashtra to around 320 to 350. “As of now 320-350 is fine I think. If we can stick to that, it is fine,” he concluded.

If Karnataka have to restrict Maharashtra to that score, they have to snare quick wickets in the morning. Firstly, they may have to get rid of Bawne, who is set on 89. And, in that regard, Aravind may have to play huge role — as a spinner or a pacer; who knows?

First Published on January 29, 2014 9:12 PM ISTLast updated on February 8, 2014 9:04 PM IST